How Do I Teach my Dog to Play Fetch?

Some dogs are naturally more inclined to play fetch than others, but that doesn’t mean you can’t try to teach your dog how to play! Fetch is a great game to play with your dog and is a great way to get some exercise. Depending on the size of your home and your dog, it’s even a great way to get some energy out on a rainy day. For hunters, fetch is part of teaching their dogs to be their hunting partners.

Why Do Dogs Love to Play Fetch?

For some dogs, it all boils down to instinct. Many dogs (like Golden Retrievers and Border Collies) instinctively like to fetch. While your family is unlikely to send your Lab out hunting for dinner as our ancestors did, that doesn’t erase tens of thousands of years of breeding.

If you’re ready to teach your dog how to play fetch, try following our expert advice below.

Find a Toy Your Dog Will Put in Their Mouth

Just like you won’t wear every shoe or eat every food, your dog won’t put every toy in their mouth. You need to choose a toy your dog is willing to put in their mouth. Some dogs have a clear preference for plush toys while others prefer a ball and others prefer a toy made of rubber and nylon.

Sometimes, you can give your dog the extra incentive to put the toy in their mouth by soaking a plush toy or tennis ball in chicken stock or stuffing a sock or Kong toy with your pup’s favorite treats.

After your dog learns the intended behavior, you’ll be able to ask them to retrieve anything— regardless of material.

Throw & Chase

Most dogs will do this part pretty naturally— especially if you’ve already found a toy they like. Get your energy up, throw the toy, and let them chase after it.

Return the Toy

This is the harder part that requires more patience from you. When first starting out, throw your toy a short distance down a narrow area, like a hallway. This helps you avoid your dog playing the “catch me if you can” game. When your dog picks up the toy, call them back to you. Use the same command each time to recall them.

Some dog owners may find it easier for their dogs to already have fairly good recall and a decent mastery of the “drop it” command before beginning fetch. If you need help working through this, contact our professional dog trainers in Apex!

Increase the Distance

As your dog is able to consistently bring the toy back and drop it, increase the distance and area you play in!